Adventurer

Overall Rating
 4 of 5

Value Rating
 5 of 5

Used product for
More than 1 year

Price Paid:  $0.00

Summary:
Hafler's 9180 is the final evolution of the landmark DH-220 power amplifier that was the rage when released in the early 1980's. Excellent performance at a value price resulted from well-engineered complimentary circuitry employing the latest (at the time) power MOSFETs. I assembled and modified several, and installed the earlier versions in many audio systems, both home and professional venues. Reliability was high, and sound quality was quite good. The 9180 has several circuit improvements over the original Hafler 'DH' models including a complimentary FET differential input amp, turn-on transient supressor, larger power supply, other subtle circuit refinements as well as improved board layout, less wiring and notably higher quality parts. (Note that Hafler TransNova amplifiers employed a much different circuit topology.) Packaging/chassis are very good--substantial, functional build quality--I still find the 9180 to be quite attractive and the best looking of Hafler amplifiers. I could describe the circuitry further, but you're likely wondering about the sound. Against the latest state-of-the-art, mega-buck power amplifier, there are some shortcomings. In my listening tests, the low end in particular lacks some heft and control. None-the-less, this amplifier performs quite well over the audio spectrum providing clean, no-fatigue audio, and still holds its own which is quite an accomplishment considering that the basic design is around 30 years old! I call that good value. If you find one at a reasonable price, go for it and own a classic with a fine heritage while enjoying its performance for a long time.

superryankatie

Overall Rating
 5 of 5

Value Rating
 5 of 5

Used product for
More than 1 year

Visitors rate this review
1.00 of 5, 1.00 votes

Price Paid:  $750.00

Summary:
.this kind of amp gives wonderful detail, warm tube like sound. great for 2 channel stero or used to home theater. It's built like a tank. If you can get one used ..i say go for it you can't go wrong. Can drive my b&w at 4 ohms with easy. This is a mucho amp. With very high ends parts and built quillty.

Strengths:
Best money to spend. Will last a long time . more like decade or more.

Weaknesses:
Not easy to find a used one on the market. I guess that is a good reason.

Price Paid:  $0.00

Summary:
This is as good a 100wpc ampt that I could ask for. In my application, it was masterful in its performance, never getting weak at the knees. Awesome

Strengths:
build quality, power reserves, confidence

Weaknesses:
cooling fins have sharp edges making handling it difficult.

Price Paid:  $500.00

Summary:
The 9180 is a good product to start with - I did. However, it is not up to par with High end amps. My mid fi McCormack absolutely puts any Hafler amp to shame - Better bass, mids and highs with pinpoint imaging.

However, the Hafler is a good, reliable amp and should be considered for anyone entering highend or on a budget.

The 5 star review is not warranted.

Strengths:
Good build, nice bass and trebble

Weaknesses:
When compared to high end products, their shortcomigs are quickly evident. Good beginner products.

Similar Products Used:
None

Summary:
I purchased the Hafler 9180 used from an audiophile friend of mine. He was the original owner. I had the pleasure of auditioning it on his system up against such greats as Krell,Cal. Audio Labs, NHT. Needless to say, some very expensive high end gear. Suprisingly, the Hafler performed quite well in comparison to the Krell. The Hafler is a great all around performer when fully warmed up. (approx 1 hour) Considering the $250 price tag used, I can't imagine getting any better performance for the dollar!! I enjoy the open full sound it gives.

My system;
Hafler9180
Chase Technologies Line controler
Rotel RCD971
MIT timed interconnects, Monster interconnects
B&W 602's Bi wired W/Monster

Strengths:
Simplicity and reliability!

Weaknesses:
None that I know of for the price.

Similar Products Used:
NAD integrated amp, Adcom